Can We Apply for Medicaid for Our Mom Without Her Signature?

Question: My mom needs Medicaid for a possible future stay in a nursing home. She has not given any of her children power of attorney, and she refuses to sign anything, including any Medicaid application papers. Is there any way to apply for her without her signature?...

The Difference Between Elder Law and Estate Planning

Elder law and estate planning serve two different–but equally vital–functions. The main difference is that elder law is focused on preserving your assets during your lifetime, while estate planning concentrates on what happens to your assets after you die....

What Vaccines Does Medicare Cover?

Vaccines can become less effective over time. Even individuals fully vaccinated as children may need to update their immunizations. Medicare Parts B and D offer vaccination coverage. Medicare Part B covers shots for the flu, hepatitis B, pneumococcal (pneumonia), and...

You Can ‘Cure’ a Medicaid Penalty Period by Returning a Gift

Anyone who gifted assets within five years of applying for Medicaid may be subject to a penalty period, but that penalty can be reduced or eliminated if the assets are returned. In order to be eligible for Medicaid, you cannot have recently transferred assets....

2022 Spousal Impoverishment and Home Equity Figures Released

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has released its Spousal Impoverishment Standards for 2022.  The spousal impoverishment thresholds will increase 5.4 percent over 2021’s figures. The official spousal impoverishment allowances for 2022 are as...